Morgan (DVD) : Review

Film

Morgan, modified organism. A stark look at what is possible when mankind starts editing the human genome. Morgan takes us to a time and place where a corporate risk-management consultant, Lee Weathers (Kate Mara – The Martian, Transcendence), is tasked with determining whether or not an artificially created humanoid should be terminated or not.

Lee is put up against all the scientists at a secret facility. Scientists who have an attachment not only to this being, Morgan (Anya Taylor-Joy) but to the time and work they have put in to this project.

As a film, Morgan is an interesting mix of “what could be”, presenting a warning to humankind to be careful where they meddle. And it is a mix of science fiction and horror, thriller and drama. While there is plenty of science to behold, the story does not forget the human side, with human traits being demonstrated by a being created artificially, and monstrous traits displayed by some of the humans. There is a unique balance at play, swaying power from one side to the other, as the story unfolds.

With tension about in a plot that carries a few simple twists, there are great performances delivered by the ensemble of talented cast. One is left just slightly unsure of what might happen next, up to the point of the great climactic reveal at the stories end.

Entertaining, and thought provoking, Morgan does conjure up some nostalgia to other films such as Species and Splice, although this is more grounded in the human condition than life from another world.

An enthralling ride, Morgan is a leader in its genre, coming from master filmmakers, and talented actors, it is certainly one to see, and is sure to be enjoyed by a very large audience.

Disc

Over all, the disc is of a decent quality, both technically and as far as the film and bonus content go.

Morgan is available now, to purchase on disc, in South Africa.

Video

Video is encoded at a high bitrate, with no visible artefacts on screen. Colours are vibrant, with no colour bleed. Details remain good in dark scenes.

Those with the relevant hardware and software can scale up to a larger or higher resolution screen, should they wish.

Audio

Audio is encoded at a high average bitrate, with clear dialogue via the centre speaker, and ample use of the surround channels to further draw the viewer in to the on-screen action and expand that environment.

Navigation

Navigation is simple, and easy to follow. The main menu has a motion background with accompanying music

Bonus Features

Modified Organism: The Science Behind Morgan – A feature that gives valuable insight in to the world that could create Morgan. How far mankind has come, with insight from Ridley Scott from a filmmaker’s perspective, and testimony from experts in the field of the genome.

It’s refreshing to see the science the fiction of the film is based on, explained in a brief way to give some additional context to the story, whether viewed before or after the main feature.

Deleted Scenes – A selection of deleted scenes, with an option to have commentary by Luke Scott. The commentary provides some context to the scenes, and why they did not make final cut.

Loom (Short Film) – A film by Ridley Scott, with optional commentary, starring Giovanni Ribisi (A Million Ways To Die In The West) and Jellybean Howie. Loom tells a story of a dystopian time, where a technician at a plant where meat is grown from food proteins decides to create his own project, soon to be found out.

Loom is in a similar vein to Morgan, looking at possible uses, good or bad, of mankind’s knowledge of genetic meddling. Being filmed in association with Red Camera and Red Studios, the visuals are spectacular. Coupled with a tightly spun story, great set design and some really talented acting, this is a great addition to the theme of the entire disc.

Feature Commentary By Luke Scott – Offering some insight in to the making of the film, and some creative and artistic choices made during the making, this commentary is sure to appeal to fans and filmmakers alike with its insight and information.

Gallery – A series of stills images from the film, with several manual and automatic navigation options.

Trailers – These include a teaser trailer and the theatrical trailer for the film.

 

By Andrew Germishuys

Founder of SAMDB | Actor | Armourer | Tech Enthusiast With over two decades in the film industry, I'm a seasoned actor and skilled armourer. I hold numerous certifications in acting and filmmaking, complemented by degrees and diplomas in IT and technology, giving me a unique blend of creative and technical expertise. When I'm not on set or in the workshop, you'll find me immersed in the world of gaming and VR, fuelling my passion for cutting-edge technology. Connect with me: X / Twitter Facebook Instagram Mastodon Threads Explore my work on SAMDB IMDb